KKR vs RCB Preview – Kolkata seek their opening win at Eden Gardens
Two-time champions Kolkata Knight Riders will host the Royal Challengers Bangalore in the ninth match of the Indian Premier League 2023 at their home ground, the Eden Gardens Stadium in Kolkata on April 6, Thursday. The hosts, having lost their campaign opener, will be aiming for a victory so as to get their account opened on the points table.
Kolkata’s previous contest against Punjab Kings was hampered as rain played a spoilsport, and they lost the game by mere seven runs (DL method). But this time, they would be gunning for a victory, and would also want to put brakes on the Royal Challengers Bangalore’s winning momentum. RCB defeated five-time champions Mumbai Indians in their opening contest of the tournament.
In their head-to-head record, Kolkata and Bangalore have faced each other in 30 matches, of which the Men in Purple have won 16 contests, while the Faf du Plessis-led side has emerged victorious on the remaining 14 occasions. KKR have not played a game of IPL at their home ground since 28 April, 2019, as they last faced Mumbai Indians at the venue, thereby winning the contest by 34 runs.
Pitch and conditions
The surface at the Eden Gardens Stadium in Kolkata has seen some thrilling T20 contests. The shorter boundaries help the batters to score big runs at the venue, which eventually increases the competitiveness in the game. Spinners might have a say in the game as the pitch wears out, essentially in the second innings.
Venue details: Eden Gardens, Kolkata
Last T20 match at the venue: IND- 184/5 (20 overs) | WI- 167/9 (20 overs)
Probable playing XI for Kolkata Knight Riders vs Royal Challengers Bangalore (KKR vs RCB):
Kolkata Knight Riders
Kolkata could not get off to the dream start in their previous game against Punjab Kings as they suffered a disappointing loss. But since their upcoming game is at their home ground, the Nitish Rana-led side will be aiming to make the most of it and put up fine performances to as to get going in the points table.
Royal Challengers Bangalore:
Royal Challengers Bangalore will be riding high on confidence, having defeated Mumbai Indians in their campaign opener by eight wickets. Former skipper Virat Kohli and current leader Faf du Plessis, both looked in great touch and will be hoping to provide the side a fiery start while opening the batting order. Mohammed Siraj would want to replicate a similar performance and keep the batters in check.
